Ethylene oxide, properly called oxirane by IUPAC, is the organic compound with the formula C2H4O. It is the simplest epoxide and cyclic ether. Ethylene oxide is isomeric with acetaldehyde and vinyl alcohol.

Contents

Properties

Chemical

Ethylene oxide is highly flammable and will burn in open air.

C2H4O + 5/2 O2 → 2 CO2 + 2 H2O

Physical

Ethylene oxide is a colorless gas at room temperature, but liquid below 10°C, with a sweet ether-like smell (some sources say bruised-apple like[1]). It is miscible with water, carbon tetrachloride and other organic solvents.

Availability

Ethylene oxide is sold by various chemical suppliers, either pure or in solution, but due to its strong carcinogenicity it's sale is restricted to companies.

Preparation

The preparation of ethylene oxide is not easy, but can be done if the procedure is followed carefully.

Industrially EO is made through direct oxidation of ethylene with oxygen in the presence of a metal catalyst, such as silver.